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Greece is the vacation destination fit for the gods. The mere mortals who visit this Mediterranean nation behold sites that span the ages. From the Parthenon in Athens to the modern culture of Thessaloniki, there are many reasons to make Greece your next vacation spot. The coastal towns, beaches and island retreats, situated against strikingly blue water, further set Greece apart from other destinations. Since the islands of Greece are essential to any visit, a cruise with shore excursions is the easiest way to get a taste of them all.

Ease on Down to the Peloponnese

The Peloponnesian Peninsula is most well known for being the birthplace of the Olympics, the setting for the Byzantines' last attempt at an empire, the battlegrounds of the Spartans and the palace of King Agamemnon. The beaches and coves of the southwest coast are also noteworthy. The small towns tucked in the mountains and valleys are less crowded than Athens and Thessaloniki, and quaint boutique hotels are nearly always available. Nafplio is regarded as one of Greece’s most romantic towns, which is quite the claim in a country full of so many breathtaking backdrops.

Create a Postcard at the Cyclades

The islands of the Cyclades represent what remains of the caldera of the volcano that some believe buried the lost city of Atlantis. The most celebrated image of the islands is of Santorini and its postcard-worthy images of whitewashed architecture under blue domes, all set against blue water. Other hot spots in the archipelago include the playground of the rich and famous at Mykonos and the wild party scene on Ios. With more than 200 other islands and an extensive inter-island ferry system, however, finding a secluded locale is not a problem.

A Tropical Getaway to Crete

Nearly a quarter of Greece’s tourists make a stop at the island where Zeus was born, legend has it. Crete is the country’s largest island and its topography is varied, highlighted by jagged mountain ranges, gorges and seaside cliffs. While the northern part of the island is built up to accommodate the hoards of tourists that flock to the island, it is large enough to still have secluded getaway spots and isolated, authentic villages. Can’t-miss sights include the ruins of Knossos, a gargantuan Minoan palace and the beaches on the southern coast,which are Europe’s only beaches featuring native palm tree forests.

All Roads Lead to the Dodecanese

The 18 islands of the Dodecanese are among the most culturally diverse in all of Greece. The islands, which were under Italian rule until 1947, have also hosted the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Catholic crusaders and the Turks. While visitors can bask on the beach – the islands receive around 300 days of sunshine every year – the real marvels are the colossal Byzantine ruins, medieval castles and religious points of interest. Rhodes is the perfect base for day trips to any of the smaller islands and can serve as a launching point to anywhere in the Mediterranean.

Go West to the Ionians

On the west side of the Greek mainland you will find the Ionian Islands, which were once an extension of the Peloponnese. Because of their position in the west, the islands have noticeable English, French and Italian influences. The islands are known for their olive groves, local red wines and fine Italian cooking. Some of the country’s best beaches are found in Iona, particularly those on Lefkada. Homer once spoke of Corfu, the northernmost Ionian isle, as a “beautiful and rich land,” a testament to the lush green hills that provide views of Albania across the narrow channel that separates the two.

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About the Author

Brian Lancette is a sports, travel and comedy writer based in Chicago by way of Northwest Wisconsin. His most recent work includes running youth baseball camps with the Boston Red Sox and Chicago Cubs. Lancette graduated from the University of Wisconsin (Eau Claire) with a degree in history and global studies.

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